Denis, owner of Taka Sushi at Lake Haven Centre, opened his new business in September this year.

We recently spoke to Denis about the success of his Taka Sushi brand and why he chose Lake Haven Centre to open his latest store.

Tell me about you?

I was born in China and worked in at the Bank of China as a Branch Manager, up until the age of 29 when I made the decision to come to Australia to study.

I chose to enrol in the University of Wollongong where I got a Master’s Degree in International Business.

This degree held me in good stead to open my own business.  I opened many different types and styles of businesses, and it wasn’t until 2008 that I decided to venture into the food industry and never looked back.

Where did the name Taka Sushi come from?

In Japanese Taka means ‘high level’. From the first day I opened my first Taka Sushi shop in Miranda the food had to be 10 out of 10. The service was spot on, every customer is important when you own and run your business. To be successful especially in food, I believe you must love what you do.

So what part of Taka Sushi do you have the most love for?

For me it’s the food prep, I love preparing and cooking with the best fresh quality ingredients.

Who taught you to cook?

A very close friend, and now I cook at home. My Japanese curry we sell in shop is a huge favourite. Our customers love it.

Most popular dish?

Easy one says Dennis Tempura Chicken Curry, also our fried rice and pan-fried dumplings.

Where did you open your first Taka Sushi business?

My first store opened in Miranda, and I have since gone on to open a further 7 stores and my most recent here at Lake Haven Centre.

Why did you choose to open in Lake Haven?

The centre is always busy, and there is no other sushi business in the area that has such an extensive menu as ours.

Plus, the area is gorgeous I would love to one day buy a house on the lake.

Do you think you will open more stores in the future?

Probably but I’m in no rush. Opening a business is hard work, you must take your time find the right location and do your homework.